Sober Cast: An (unofficial) Alcoholics Anonymous Podcast AA AA History: Formation of AA in Eastern Europe
Mar 15, 2026
Volodya (Belarus/Russia) shares founding a group in Magadan and building meetings. John Summers (American) recounts helping AA grow in Prague and Kiev and supporting literature efforts. Tadeusz (Poland) outlines Poland’s organization and regional service work. They reminisce about 1990s expansion in Eastern Europe, translations, grassroots meetings, and international coordination.
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Engage Professionals To Find New Members
- Reach professionals because they are often the first contact for alcoholics and need to know about AA to refer people.
- The host emphasizes building cooperation with doctors and professionals in countries where AA is new.
A 60 Mile Journey With Two Candles
- A Hungarian member traveled 60 miles on limited pay to bring two candles to the convention as gifts for Bill W. and Dr. Bob.
- The host received the candles and described the moment as profoundly moving and emblematic of AA's personal impact.
Helmut's Hands On Start In Hungary
- Helmut recounts helping start AA in Hungary in 1987 and growing it from practically zero to many groups.
- He notes challenges like lack of phones and money but estimates ~500 people stopped drinking with AA there.